X10 Community Forum

💬General Category => General Discussion => Topic started by: geo8rge on October 22, 2007, 03:38:01 PM

Title: Why can't I use a compact fluorescent with a dimmer?
Post by: geo8rge on October 22, 2007, 03:38:01 PM

I have a WS467 dimmable wall switch, RR01 wireless transceiver, and KR19A Slim Fire key chain controller.  The instructions say MUST NOT BE USED TO CONTROL FLUORESCENT LAMPS.  When I dim a compact fluorescent It does not dim much, but I hear a humming noise.  So what is the danger?  Will the bulb burn out?  Will the switch be damaged?

Also, is there a way to disable the dimmer?

Title: Re: Why can't I use a compact fluorescent with a dimmer?
Post by: Tuicemen on October 22, 2007, 03:50:06 PM

Some Compact fluorescents are dimable read the packaging you may find one! ;)
If it doesn't say on the packaging that it is dimable then it isn't safe to,See Topic: New Dangers with the newer CFLs    (http://www.x10community.com/forums/index.php?topic=13559.0)! ;)

Title: Re: Why can't I use a compact fluorescent with a dimmer?
Post by: geo8rge on October 22, 2007, 04:00:13 PM

Doing more searches, GE claims it will reduce bulb life.  My question is, is that the worst?  I can live with shortened bulb life.  I also think the X10 people should have had a way to disable the dimmer.

Can I use a compact fluorescent light bulb with a dimmer switch?
To use a compact fluorescent bulb on a dimmer switch, you must buy a bulb that's specifically made to work with dimmers (check the package). GE makes a dimming compact fluorescent light bulb (called the Energy Smart Dimming Spirals®) that is specially designed for use with dimming switches. We don't recommend using regular compact fluorescent bulbs with dimming switches, since this can shorten bulb life. (Using a regular compact fluorescent bulb with a dimmer will also nullify the bulb's warranty.)

http://www.gelighting.com/na/home_lighting/ask_us/faq_compact.htm#dimmer

Title: Re: Why can't I use a compact fluorescent with a dimmer?
Post by: Tuicemen on October 22, 2007, 04:21:33 PM

Quote from: geo8rge on October 22, 2007, 04:00:13 PM

Doing more searches, GE claims it will reduce bulb life.  My question is, is that the worst?

How about burning down your house?
 Did you not check the link I provided?  ??? ???

****view the video**** ;)

Want something worse? How about losing your house and everyone in it!  :(

Title: Re: Why can't I use a compact fluorescent with a dimmer?
Post by: Brian H on October 22, 2007, 04:27:16 PM

The WS467 steals power through the load and will not work with any CFL; even dimable ones and you may cause damage to both the CFL or WS467. Maybe both.
Non dimming X10 type switches with mechanical switches should work; but all I have seen also need a neutral power wire in the switches electrical box.

Title: Re: Why can't I use a compact fluorescent with a dimmer?
Post by: geo8rge on October 23, 2007, 09:55:06 PM

Ok I've straightened myself out and stopped being a rebel.  The 3 bulb fixture now has 3 incandescent bulbs.  Thanks for the replies.

Title: Re: Why can't I use a compact fluorescent with a dimmer?
Post by: Brian H on October 24, 2007, 06:58:47 AM

I have a similar problem in my Kitchen. The wall dimmer switch doesn't like CF Ls. I guess I could use a standard switch always ON and a Socket Rocket in the fixture. Most CF Ls will work with a Socket Rocket, though some seem to make powerline noise in one. At least in my tests.